Habitat

From May to November, Maroma Beach at Belmond Hotel becomes a sea turtle sanctuary, giving life to more than 10,000 baby sea turtles per season. Within our program, several species of sea turtles are protected including White, Loggerhead, Hawksbill and Leatherback sea turtles. Through this program, guests can visit Maroma's Turtle Sanctuary and when the eggs hatch, as well as observing the release of the baby turtles into the ocean.

Melipona bees, a stingless species, hold immense cultural and spiritual significance for the Mayan people. Their unique medicinal honey is renowned for its healing properties and they play a crucial role in pollinating native plants, making them essential for maintaining the region's biodiversity and delicate ecosystem.

In an effort to further support and protect these vital creatures, we have forged a partnership between a local foundation, Guerlain and Maroma. This collaboration aims to preserve the legacy of the Melipona bee by establishing a dedicated sanctuary that includes expanding resident hives for educational guest experiences. Furthermore, we are committed to protecting these bees in their original habitats on property, and to date, we have identified 53 Melipona nests across seven distinct species.

Maroma is located in an important nesting and breeding area for Olive Throated Parakeets and White-Fronted Parrots, both of which are endangered species. To help conserve these endemic bird species in danger of extinction, Maroma has created a comprehensive conservation program, identifying and protecting nests and hatchlings found on site and providing better environments for their reproduction. Our surveys revealed 38 potential nests, over 15 sightings and the joyful presence of three chicks – proof that our land remains a vital sanctuary.

Maroma has received its Starlight Certification. Starlight is a non-profit organization and the only certification of its kind, endorsed by the UN, UNESCO and UNWTO. The certification recognizes hotels that protect the night sky through best lighting practices. This commitment is deeply connected to the region’s Mayan heritage – one of the world’s most advanced ancient astronomical civilizations – allowing guests to experience the cosmos as the Mayans once did through our guided Mayan Stargazing experience.

Maroma is home to an on-site nursery that produces over two thousand endemic plants, some of which are in danger of extinction. Our team rescues seedlings of regional flora – such as palma chit, palma real, ceiba and ciricote – from the resort’s surrounding jungle, to increase their rate of reproduction and survival.